How Can I Fix My Lack of Longitudinal Growth Of The Maxilla?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have lack of longitudinal growth of the maxilla that makes my face look sunken. I would like to know if these implants could fix the skeletal discrepancy or are good only for people as they age.

A:Thank you for sending your better quality pictures. When it comes to a midface deficiency the indicated treatment depends on what level of the mid \face you were trying to improve. If you have a good occlusion then a total mid face mask implant would be appropriate in fully addressing the lack of forward growth of your mid face from the infraorbital rims and cheeks down to the paranasal area.

Such mid face implants are used almost exclusively in young patients which lack midface projection. They are never used in my experience in older patients for age-related reasons.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Plastic Surgeon